DENT5658 Law Enforcement

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Content
This unit is taken as part of the Graduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology and in conjunction with DENT5657 The Law. It provides an overview of the structure of law enforcement agencies; protocols for continuity of evidence; function of the expert witness; legal implications of a mass disaster incident; report writing and preparation; and presentation of a case to a moot court.
Outcomes
Students are able to (1) demonstrate advanced skills in being an expert witness; (2) demonstrate the ability to write reports for the courts; (3) participate in the presentation of a case to a moot court; (4) understand the significance of confidentiality as it applies to forensic investigations; and (5) understand the legal implications of a mass disaster incident.
Assessment
This comprises assignment work, one written examination (1.5 hours) and a viva voce examination (45 minutes).

Supplementary assessment is not available in this unit.
Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Stephen Knott
Unit rules
Prerequisites:
Bachelor of Dental Science from this University
or
equivalent as recognised by the Faculty; and at least two years' experience in the practice of general dentistry
Co-requisites:
enrolment in the Graduate Diploma in Forensic Odontology (91350),
and
DENT5657 The Law
Approved quota: 2
Contact hours
lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical work: 60–70 hours according to mortuary casework and court attendance
Texts

Carvan, J. Understanding the Australian Legal System, 5th edn: Lawbook Company 2005

Colvin, E. et al. Criminal Law in Queensland and Western Australia, 2nd edn: Butterworths 1998

Cook, C. et al. Laying Down the Law, 6th edn: LexisNexis Butterworths 2005

Derham, D. P. et al. An Introduction to Law, 5th edn: Law Book Company 1986

Freckelton, I. and Selby, H. The Law of Expert Evidence: LBC Information Services 1999

Meek, M. The Australian Legal System, 3rd edn: LBC Information Services 1999

Rutherford, L. and Bone, S., eds Osborn's Concise Law Dictionary, 8th edn: Sweet and Maxwell 1993

Winfield, R. The Expert Medical Witness: Federation Press 1989

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Books and other material wherever listed may be subject to change. Book lists relating to 'Preliminary reading', 'Recommended reading' and 'Textbooks' are, in most cases, available via the Booktopia Textbook Finder, which has the functionality to search by course code, course, ISBN and title, and may also be posted or available at the appropriate school's administrative offices. Where texts are listed in the unit description above, an asterisk (*) indicates that the book is available in paperback.